A new Mishimoto BRZ/FR-S Intake, Part 3: Product Testing and Final Product

After solidifying our product design we needed to capture data to verify the design and determine if any changes were necessary. We strapped our test vehicle to the dyno and began making pulls! Check out a compilation video from the dyno testing. The audible difference in intake tone and volume is quite noticeable when comparing the stock setup with the Mishimoto prototype.

Testing Results

On to the important part, results from our tests. Intake upgrades generally are subject to a decent amount of speculation, because of the outrageous claims often made by component manufacturers.

Here at Mishimoto, we perform extensive, repeatable testing to ensure that our results are 100% accurate and are not skewed in any way. Below are some of the constraints and details for the testing of this vehicle!

Testing day ambient temperature: 60°F

Testing day ambient humidity: 18%

Data collected: horsepower, torque, air/fuel ratio (AFR)

Numerous runs were made until each setup resulted in 4–5 consistent pulls; average run from this group was used for comparison.

Check out the power comparison chart!

Intake testing results

The Mishimoto intake begins to separate itself from the stock system at around 5,300 rpm and continues to provide gains through redline. Through most of this range we are seeing gains around 2–4 whp with maximum gains of 7 whp and 5 wtq at just under 7,000 rpm. These are fantastic gains for a bolt-on intake system, and our team was very pleased with the results.

One topic of conversation revolving around intake results is the AFRs produced. Our intake features a mass airflow (MAF) housing diameter that differs slightly from the stock setup, this would have an impact on AFRs. Check out the chart constructed from the pulls above!

Intake AFR results

Our intake provide a similar AFR path compared to the stock setup. Ratios are slightly richer from 4,000 rpm to 6,000 rpm and then become slightly leaner until redline. Although leaner, these AFRs are still well within a safe range and will not have a negative impact on the integrity of your vehicle. Another positive data point from testing!

The last chart we have to show is a comparison of air filter surface area. As we alluded to earlier in this article, the surface area of our oiled filter is far greater than the stock paper unit.

Filter surface area comparison

Final Product!

After obtaining positive testing and fitment results, we worked up a final prototype that appropriately reflects our final design. Check out some shots of our final airbox!

Mishimoto final airbox designMishimoto final airbox design

Here’s a closer look at the threaded rivets that secure the lid to the base of the airbox.

Mishimoto final airbox lid-mounting points

Check out the front duct that functions with the stock air scoop.

Mishimoto final airbox air duct

Below is a shot of the airbox lid complete with subtle Mishimoto logo and noise-eliminating weather stripping!

Mishimoto final airbox lid

We also have the final hardware packet for this kit. Four socket cap bolts and washers attach the lid to the airbox. Two other bolts and one nut secure the box to the vehicle via the three mounting brackets attached to the box.

Mishimoto final airbox hardware kit

Check out the final assembled airbox!

Mishimoto final assembled airbox

Fully Installed Kit

Check out a few shots of this final kit fully assembled and installed!